Volkswagen CEO Matthias Müller has confirmed the company's various brands will launch approximately 20 electric or plug-in hybrid models by 2020.

Volkswagen CEO Matthias Müller has confirmed the company's various brands will launch approximately 20 electric or plug-in hybrid models by 2020.

Speaking at the company's New Year reception in Brussels, Müller said the automaker is using the Dieselgate scandal to "fundamentally realign" the company with a focus on sustainability.

Numerous politicians were in attendance so Müller also used his speech to call for companies and policy makers to work closely together to help promote electric mobility. One key area where cooperation is need is in the development of a network of rapid charging stations. As Müller explained, consumer confidence in electric vehicles won't grow until there is a visible and functioning infrastructure to support them. In essence, Müller believes electric vehicles will play a relatively small role until customers are confident they won't be stranded when the battery needs to be recharged.

The growing importance of technology was also highlighted as Müller stated "We must not leave this playing field to Silicon Valley." Instead, Europe needs to be a leader in electric mobility and autonomous driving technology. The executive didn't lay out any specific proposals but noted governments and corporations must work together to ensure Europe remains innovative and competitive in a "rapidly changing world."